Kudu Blue close their year in style with ‘NGFM’, following a string of much-praised releases ‘Fallin’ Away’, ‘Vicinity’ and ‘Call Out’. While it might be a little early for the rest of us to start considering the end of 2016, it clearly isn’t for the Brighton five-piece who have found the perfect closing chapter in the first song that they collectively wrote, but have developed over the past eighteen months. What we’re listening to here is the growth of a band, the overcoming of obstacles and an optimistic foresight into the future. ‘NGFM’ is simply brimming with energy, propelling itself forward on a high-wind of staccato electronics and pulsing rhythm. However, it’s also a track of reflection and so we’re encouraged to slow down for a moment, listen to the spacious guitars and soft vocals, but before long you can feel the tempo picking up speed and your own body subconsciously moving with the quickening pace. This is your certified New Year’s Eve soundtrack complete with nostalgic R&B vocal, nods to ‘90s club music and ‘00s pop, which should help you party like it’s 1999. - HT